§ 3. Mr. Peter Smithersasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether it is his policy to encourage and to assist 2064 colonial students who are married to bring their wives with them when studying in Britain; and whether his policy in this respect is the same for West Indian as for African students.
§ Mr. J. GriffithsThe answer to both parts of the Question is "Yes, Sir." I am in consultation with colonial Governments about certain practical considerations affecting the implementation of this policy.
§ Mr. SmithersIs the right hon. Gentleman aware of the hardship which arises as a result of students who have come to this country finding, on their return to the Colonies, that their outlook has altered so much that it is rather difficult to live with their former wives? Will he give sympathetic consideration to this matter?
§ Mr. GriffithsI am aware of that consideration, and I am sympathetic to the project put forward.
§ Mr. SorensenExactly what does my right hon. Friend propose to do in the case of those unfortunate students who do not like their wives when they return?
§ 30. Mr. Awberyasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what steps are being taken to ensure that the wardens in charge of the colonial students hostels possess the qualities needed to enable them to carry out their tasks satisfactorily.
§ Mr. J. GriffithsThe British Council are responsible, under my general direction, for the administration of the hostels and the appointment of the wardens. In the selection of wardens consideration is given to experience in dealing with colonial students and in handling a student or similar community, to administrative ability, and to the qualities of sympathy, firmness and tact. Confirmation of the appointments is subject to the satisfactory completion of a probationary period.
§ Mr. AwberyIs the Minister aware of the criticisms which come from high quarters in Malaya of the appointment of senior Government officials to take charge of these places, and that because of this the students do not feel a sense of sympathy and confidence?
§ Mr. GriffithsNo, Sir. I have visited some of these hostels and no such criticism has been conveyed to me.
§ Mr. AwberyIf I draw the attention of the Minister to it, will he take action?
§ Mr. GriffithsIf my hon. Friend will give me any details or particulars of what he has in mind, I will look at the matter, but, as I say, I have had no complaints.
§ Mr. WyattWould my right hon. Friend try, as often as possible, to ensure that the wardens are of the same race as the students?
§ Mr. GriffithsIn one of the hostels I have been encouraging young officers trained here for the Colonial Service to share the hospitality of the hostels with those from colonial territories so that they can begin to co-operate before they leave for their service.